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Press Releases
Alan Johnston: Statement by Mark Thompson, Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Director-General
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Mark Thompson, Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Director-General, made the following statement at a press conference in Ramallah today, just after 9am UK time, about missing Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Gaza Correspondent Alan Johnston.
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"It is exactly one month ago today that our colleague Alan Johnston was abducted in Gaza City while travelling home - from the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ office to his apartment. Alan has spent the last three years as Gaza correspondent for the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ, living and working among its people. He had formed many strong friendships in Gaza - and here in Ramallah - and came to be held in great affection and regard by those who know him. He is a brave, dedicated and humane journalist who was deeply committed to reporting events in Gaza to the wider world.
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"Alan has now been held captive longer than any other Western hostage in Gaza. As time goes on we - his friends and colleagues - are increasingly concerned about the physical and mental toll his incarceration must be taking on him. It is also placing untold stress on his family. Every day his parents, sister and brother-in-law in Scotland wait for firm news, with mounting anxiety.
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"When Alan was abducted, he was in the last few weeks of his posting - a period in which he had seen Gaza become an increasingly difficult and chaotic place for journalists to operate in safely. Because of this, Alan had been looking forward to returning to his staff post in London in the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ World Service newsroom.
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"His case has attracted widespread attention from around the world. Today, I want to say thank you - to the Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate for highlighting Alan's suffering. And to the people of Gaza for taking Alan to their hearts - and for their help in bringing pressure to bear on all those who may have influence to bring about a safe - and speedy - resolution to this case.
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"Yesterday, I met with President Abbas. He told me that he had credible evidence that Alan was safe and well. He assured me that Palestinian authorities are fully engaged with Alan's case and working to resolve this as soon as possible.
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"It is vital for all journalists to be able to report freely and without fear of harassment and intimidation. The people of Gaza are ill served by kidnappings of this nature.
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"This morning, I appeal to all those who may have influence with the kidnappers, to use their best endeavours to secure Alan's release - safely and speedily - and ensure his return to his family and friends as quickly as possible."
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Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Press Office
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